What's up?: The Spartans started 1-3 but came within five points of making the 5A State Championship game. They entered Week 9 needing a win against Rochelle and did so, 35-21 to get into the postseason. They then rolled off wins against Solorio Academy (42-21), the Hubs again (26-14) and Sterling (21-16). It was a senior-laden group – 25 in all last year. (Photo by Matthew Apgar - mapgar@shawmedia.com)

[Matthew Apgar / Daily Chronicle]

Peyton Wiegmann: An injury to starter Chris Pawola thrust Wiegmann into a starting role for a good chunk of the season last year. He finished with 719 yards and six scored on 150 carries.

[Matthew Apgar / Daily Chronicle]

Justin Pottorff: The now-senior quarterback didn't see the playing time Wiegmann did, but did get on the field – he played most of the game against Roosevelt, throwing touchdowns on all three of his attempts against the overmatched Indiana school in Week 3.

[Matthew Apgar / Daily Chronicle]

Austin Perry: Like on offense, a lot of the defensive players for the Spartans have graduated. Perry likely will be one of the players called upon to have a much bigger role this time around.

[Matthew Apgar / Daily Chronicle]

Luke Ryan: Ryan was a double threat for the Spartans last year with 467 yards and two scores receiving and 154 yards and three scores on the ground.